Word Origin & History

matrix 1373, from O.Fr. matrice, from L. matrix (gen. matricis) "pregnant animal," in L.L. "womb," also "source, origin," from mater (gen. matris) "mother." Sense of "place or medium where something is developed" is first recorded 1555; sense of "embedding or enclosing mass" first recorded 1641. Logical sense of "array of possible combinations of truth-values" is attested from 1914.

Example Sentences for matrix

It sometimes exists as the matrix of the sulphuret of lead—more frequently, as one of its accompanying minerals.

To find any fault with the matrix of this opal is probably blasphemous.

Trays of cut turquoises and lumps of matrix stood on the counters.

You can never detach an experience from its matrix and weigh it alone.

He distinguished two parts in the matrix of a hen, the one superior and the other inferior.

Every environment leaves the stamp of its matrix on the individual shaped in it.